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Chief Roy: Global strike is a mission we can't forget

by Staff Sgt. John Gordinier
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

3/11/2011 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- The Air Force's highest-ranking enlisted Airman discussed the future of the Air Force, education, training issues, professional military education and resiliency with more than 1,400 Airmen here.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy visited March 8 for an orientation with Air Force Global Strike Command, Eighth Air Force and 2nd Bomb Wing Airmen.

"With Barksdale (AFB) being active duty, Reserve and Guard, it is very important that we continue to team together, because the deter and assure mission is one mission we can't forget about. It's not talked about a lot, but deterrence is extremely important because our allies rely on it; and they rely on us to do it safely and efficiently. I want to emphasize the importance of that mission to the Airmen of Barksdale (AFB). You all are doing a fantastic job. I couldn't be more pleased to be your chief master sergeant of the Air Force. Thank you for your hard work."

Chief Roy spent time during the visit with chief master sergeants and headquarters staff directors of the Air Force's newest command.

"I was here at the beginning of Global Strike Command and to see where it is today, to be as far as the command is in such a short time, is outstanding," the chief said. "It takes professionals to do that, from the leadership to the Airmen. It was important for us to stand up another major command to look at the entire nuclear enterprise and to put everything under one command; it brings synergy to energy."

Airmen said they enjoyed hearing from Chief Roy.

"Meeting the chief master sergeant of the Air Force was an honor," said Airman 1st Class Raymond Chambers, of the 2nd Security Forces Squadron. "He was very experienced and knowledgeable about current and future Air Force events. It was great to hear about the future of my career in the United States Air Force."

"My visit to Barksdale was absolutely superb. It was a great opportunity for me to get to know Air Force Global Strike Command a little more and to share some thoughts with the Airmen here -- and most importantly, to receive some comments from them," Chief Roy said.

Before leaving, Chief Roy took a moment to thank Airmen's families for their continual support.

"We often talk about the mission and the Airmen and how they are supporting the mission, but we sometimes fail to realize all the sacrifices our families endure every day," he said. "I want to tell the families of the Airmen, spouses, parents, that we appreciate and understand the sacrifices they've made."